Inspired by the London 2012 Olympics and a note from her late father, Lola Anderson fulfilled her teenage dream by winning gold in women's quadruple sculls at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

At the age of 26, Anderson not only fulfilled a childhood dream but also secured a historic first-ever gold in any women's rowing event for Great Britain. Joined by teammates Georgie Brayshaw, Lauren Henry, and Hannah Scott, the team clinched the victory in a nail-biting photo finish against the Netherlands. This win adds to Great Britain's impressive tally of six gold medals in Paris and highlights Anderson's personal journey of perseverance and inspiration from her late father.

Lola Anderson’s journey to Olympic gold began as a teenager when she was inspired by the London 2012 Olympics. She dreamed of one day rowing in the Olympics and possibly winning a gold medal. Despite her doubts over the years, her father, Don, kept a diary entry where she described her 'biggest dream in life' and gave it to her in 2019 just before he died of cancer.

However, Lola’s father, Don Anderson, preserved that cherished note. In 2019, battling cancer, Don returned the note to Lola, reminding her of her dream. This meaningful gesture occurred just two months before he passed away, marking a poignant moment in Lola’s life and career.

Driven by her father’s memory and her reignited passions, Lola Anderson dedicated herself to rowing. Her determination was rewarded when she and her team - Georgie Brayshaw, Lauren Henry, and Hannah Scott - won gold in the women’s quadruple sculls at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The event’s final was nothing short of dramatic. The Great Britain team won the gold in a photo finish against the Netherlands in the final 250 meters, clocking an impressive pool-best time of 6:16.31. This victory was historic as it marked the first gold in any women's rowing event for Great Britain and the first medal in women’s quadruple sculls since 2008.

Reflecting on this victory, Lola Anderson highlighted the support and collaboration of her teammates. She credited Georgie, Lauren, and Hannah's contributions to unlocking her potential and achieving this incredible milestone.

This win followed a successful stint the previous year, where Lola and her team had already become world champions. This consistent performance showcases the team’s dedication and skill on the global stage.

In addition to her gold medal, Lola cherishes the diary entry given by her father. She keeps it safe alongside her gold medal and her father's old medals, which she treasures deeply. These items serve as a testament to her hard work, dedication, and her father's unwavering support.

Lola Anderson also has her sights set on the future, expressing her desire to show her gold medal to her children and hoping to inspire them with her story. She aims to pass on the legacy of perseverance and dedication that she learned from her father.

Great Britain's overall success at the Paris 2024 Olympics was commendable, with the nation securing 17 medals, including six golds. The rowing victory by Lola Anderson and her team contributed significantly, ensuring Great Britain ranked fourth in terms of total medals.

Lola’s story is one of inspiration and determination, embodying the spirit of an athlete who overcame personal challenges to fulfill her lifelong dream. Her father’s note, which Lola initially threw away, was kept by her father and became a cherished memento of her journey to Olympic glory when he gave it to her in 2019, just before he passed away.